tubes from a/c radiator, copper 1 or copper 2?

Hello,

I've been breaking down a/c units and a coils for the past year and it just occurred to me that I might be ripping myself off by selling the copper as copper 2 instead of copper 1. When I go to the scrap yard I just say it's copper 2 and obviously they're not going to contradict me. Wouldn't these radiator tubes be copper 1, I've had a lot that look clean, no solder, no paint, nothing. However, I've also had some that have that white residue, I believe it's aluminum oxide. Anybody think I should try to get copper 1 prices for the tubing? Anybody having experience with this, your insight would be appreciated. Thanks

I would just leave them complete with the aluminum. But the tubes could be either 1 or 2, just really is the opinion of the buyer.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by sangfroid

I've had a lot that look clean, no solder, no paint, nothing.

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I keep 2 buckets
1 is for copper that looks clean, no solder, no paint
The 2nd bucket gets everything else

Some yards treat all hvac copper pipe as #2 because of residual oil. And yes, I would leave them intact as well. The profit you are seeing by stripping the radiators is what you get from selling the aluminum.

All of you are right, copper tube's from coil's are #2 copper due to oil and alum. residue. Like said sell them as clean Al/CU or IAL/CU the extra monies made aren't worth the time.